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San Francisco, CA, USA to Palo Alto, CA, USA from $1: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
San Francisco, United States of America
to
Palo Alto, United States of America

How to Get from San Francisco to Palo Alto: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$1 by busBest price
45.06 kmDistance
37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Palo Alto with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Caltrain
Train
Average Duration
1h  1m
Estimated price
$7-9
Recommended
Company
SamTrans
Bus
Average Duration
1h  45m
Estimated price
$1-5
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 45.06 km
Duration: 37m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$5-9
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$180-220
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Traveling From San Francisco to Palo Alto

The journey from San Francisco to Palo Alto offers a shift from the vibrant, bustling energy of the city to the serene, innovation-driven atmosphere of Silicon Valley.

Best Neighbourhoods in Palo Alto

Palo Alto boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct charm and appeal.

Downtown Palo Alto
• Lively shops and trendy restaurants abound.
• Cultural venues host art events and performances.
Professorville
• Historic homes showcase Victorian architecture.
• Tree-lined streets create a quiet, picturesque setting.
California Avenue
• Farmers' market features local produce and artisan goods.
• A mix of cafés and boutique stores invites exploration.

Best Times To Visit Palo Alto's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your Palo Alto experience significantly.

Stanford University
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy quieter walks and stunning campus views.
Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve
Weekdays are ideal to explore trails and observe wildlife without the weekend crowds.
Stanford Shopping Center
Plan visits during weekdays, especially mid-morning, for a more relaxed shopping experience.

Palo Alto Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Palo Alto boasts a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when the weather is pleasant, making outdoor activities enjoyable and enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Palo Alto

Try the authentic wood-fired pizza at Pizzeria Delfina, which brings a rustic charm and a focus on local ingredients that contrasts with San Francisco's more eclectic food scene. The cozy atmosphere and emphasis on simplicity in flavor profile create a uniquely inviting dining experience that highlights the local culture.

San Francisco - Palo Alto operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and Palo Alto, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound to Palo Alto Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$7-9
Bus Show bus routes
Website
samtrans.com

Bus from Mission St & 9th St to Clarke Ave & O'Connor St-Ravenswood Shopping Ctr

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$1-5
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 415-333-3333
Website
http://yellowcabsf.com

Taxi from San Francisco to Palo Alto

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$180-220
Contact phone
+1 408-541-1515
Website
http://taxibayarea.com

Taxi from San Francisco to Palo Alto

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$180-220
Contact phone
+1 415-626-4733

Taxi from San Francisco to Palo Alto

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$180-220

San Francisco to Palo Alto: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between San Francisco and Palo Alto offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque journey from San Francisco to Palo Alto by car, covering a distance of 32 miles in just under 37 minutes. As you hit the road, be prepared for a smooth ride filled with scenic views and excitement. 💵 Experience the affordability of this road trip, with prices ranging from $5 to $9 for the entire journey from San Francisco to Palo Alto by car. Enjoy the convenience of setting your own pace and exploring the diverse landscapes along the way.
Average price
$5 - $9
🛤️ The train services operated by Caltrain depart every 30 minutes, providing travelers with multiple options throughout the day to make the trip. The approximate duration of the train ride is 1 hour and 1 minute, offering a comfortable and relaxing travel experience. 🌉 With a distance of 30.0 miles between the two cities, travelers can choose between different routes with varying travel times, such as taking the Train towards San Jose Diridon for a quicker journey or opting for the Train towards Tamien for a slightly longer but scenic route. Caltrain's reliable service ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip for passengers.
Departure Point
San Francisco Caltrain Southbound station
Arrival Point
Palo Alto Caltrain Southbound station
🚌 Traveling from San Francisco to Palo Alto by bus is convenient and efficient. The direct bus operated by SamTrans departs from Mission St & 9th St and arrives at Clarke Ave & O'Connor St-Ravenswood Shopping Ctr, with services running three times a day, Monday to Friday, taking approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. 🛤️ The journey covers a distance of 30.0 miles and offers a relaxing way to experience the scenic route between the two cities. With affordable prices ranging from $1 to $5, travelers can enjoy a comfortable ride while admiring the Bay Area landscapes along the way.
Departure Point
Mission St & 9th St station
Arrival Point
Clarke Ave & O'Connor St-Ravenswood Shopping Ctr station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Francisco to Palo Alto.

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The distance between San Francisco and Palo Alto is 28 miles. It takes approximately 32.5 miles to drive between the two cities. By car, it typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes to reach Palo Alto from San Francisco, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, taking a bus from San Francisco to Palo Alto usually takes about 2 hours and 4 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Francisco to Palo Alto is taking a night bus, which typically costs between $1 and $5. This option takes approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes. However, if time efficiency is more important, the quickest option would be to take a taxi, which costs around $180 to $220, but can get you to Palo Alto from San Francisco in just 37 minutes. It ultimately depends on your budget and priorities when choosing between these transportation options.
The prices for a bus ticket between Palo Alto and San Francisco vary from $1 to $5. It is recommended to check with different bus companies to find the best deal. Additionally, there may be promotional or discounted fares available at certain times. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best price and avoid any last-minute price increases.
To get from San Francisco to Palo Alto without using public transportation, driving is a convenient option. The distance between the two cities is approximately 32 miles and the drive takes around 37 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of the journey by car can vary between $5 to $9, depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll fees.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Palo Alto without a car is by taking the Caltrain. The Caltrain journey takes approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes and costs between $7 and $9. This is a convenient and reliable option for getting from one city to the other without the need for a car.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and Palo Alto. There is a train service operated by Caltrain that departs from San Francisco Caltrain station and arrives at Palo Alto Caltrain station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes. Additionally, there is an overnight bus service operated by SamTrans that departs from 11th St & Market St and arrives at University Ave & Woodland Ave in Palo Alto. This bus operates every day and the journey takes approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Palo Alto with a wide range of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. There are currently over 856 hotels available in the area, offering a variety of amenities and services. Prices start at $64 per night, ensuring options for budget travelers. From luxury hotels to budget motels and everything in between, travelers are sure to find suitable accommodation near Palo Alto.
Yes, it is possible to bike from San Francisco to Palo Alto. The exact travel time will depend on factors such as the route taken, personal biking speed, and rest breaks. It is important to plan the route carefully and be aware of the road conditions and traffic while cycling.

Trips from San Francisco